Chapter 0227
Jackson frowned, wanting to say something but hesitating. Yana, on the other hand, had no
reservations.
She handed a randomly bought gift to Sonia and continued to speak with a smile. “I didn’t expect you to be so caring. But I advise you not to say too much today.” Yana intentionally lowered her voice. “I heard that busybodies don’t live long. It’s your birthday today, don’t ruin your own mood.”
Sonia’s eyes widened with shock.
Yana reached out to grab Candice’s hand. “All right, Candy, let’s go inside. Miss Summers already knew you were coming and came out to greet you. Let’s show some respect.‘”
The words were straightforward and deliberate. Candice remained composed on the surface and agreed. “Fine, even though it’s quite meaningless.”
Alex remained indifferent, showing little emotion where he stood nearby. His dark eyes watched Candice leave, however.
“Lex, long time no see.” Jackson’s gentle voice sounded, and Alex looked at him.
Jackson smiled, but there was a hint of helplessness in his eyes. “She worked at Aether for so many years, there’s no need for you to be so hostile. Can’t you two part on good terms?”
A mysterious light flashed in Alex’s eyes. “Are you trying to defend her again?” He sneered. “One
after another, it’s amusing.”
Jackson’s expression became uneasy. He could hear the sarcasm in Alex’s voice. He’d had no
choice but to come today.
In any social occasion entangled with social conventions, it was never solely about personal feelings, especially in their circle where various connections were inevitable. Furthermore, today’s
main focus was not on Sonia.
Once inside the venue, Yana pulled Candice to a secluded corner and took a seat on a sofa.
Jackson left on his own, saying that he needed to see someone.
Their seats were strategically placed with a clear view of the entrance. Candice recognized most of the people entering. They were mostly wealthy youngsters from influential families in Dorrington.
Sonia’s birthday party was certainly grand.
+15 BUMUS
When Alex and his group entered, there was a young man accompanying them. He had a carefree smile and his hair was dyed a grayish–blue color.
Candice unintentionally glanced at him and quickly lowered her gaze.
“That’s Solomon Quimby from the Quimby family in Solaris,” Yana said. “My old man said whether Aether can expand to Solaris depends on whether we can build connections with the Quimbys.”
Of course, Yana’s father had also mentioned that it would be even better if she could connect with the Quimbys. However, Yana did not share this with Candice.
Yana’s father was the branch manager of Dorr Bank, so many people came to socialize with her where they sat. The exchanges were filled with empty politeness and toasts.
After dealing with two more people, Yana stood up and told Candice that she was going to the
restroom.
Shortly after she left, Sonia approached with a wine glass in hand.
“Candice, where’s Yana? I just saw her here,” Sonia said, smiling faintly.
“She went to the restroom.”
“I see.” Sonia showed no intention of leaving. “Lex said I’m the star of this party and I must entertain the guests well.”
“Candice, although I’m surprised you came, I’m still happy. Let me toast to you,” she smiled. holding out the wine glass.
She was being careful, but their relationship was complicated.
were
Many people in the vicinity were aware of the situation, and watching, waiting for Candice’s
response.
Candice remained composed, not accepting the toast. She said, “Happy birthday. No need for al toast. I haven’t been drinking lately.”
Sonia did not withdraw, however. She knew that people were watching, and losing to Candice
would become fresh gossip.
“Candice, I’m being sincere. After all, you’ve helped me a lot. It’s only right for me to toast to you.” She gritted her teeth, then whispered so only they could hear, “Without you, I wouldn’t be where I
am now.”
It was a provocation.
Sonia still held the wine glass out, maintaining a humble attitude.
After a moment of contemplation, Candice, sensing the situation, found herself unable to decline.
With the increasing numbers of curious glances around, Candice reluctantly reached out to take
the glass from Sonia.
As her fingertips touched the glass, Sonia released the glass. The red wine spilled out, and Sonia pulled back quickly. The glass tipped towards Candice, spilling the wine all over her.
Candice was only wearing a thin chiffon shirt, and the red wine stained a large patch, making the
fabric embarrassingly see–through.
“Candice, are you okay?” Sonia cried, her voice panicky. “You were definitely holding the glass
when I let go!”
The sensation of wine–soaked fabric sticking to the skin was unpleasant. Candice looked at Sonia with a cold expression. “Did you do this on purpose?”
Sonia’s face stiffened slightly. “You’ve misunderstood, I really didn’t do it on purpose. I thought
you had already taken it.”
Amidst the surrounding commotion, Yana returned and saw the state of Candice’s clothes. She
frowned. “What happened?”
With her head lowered, Sonia spoke wretchedly, “I’m sorry, Candice, I really didn’t mean to. Please
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